Effect of lacquer decoration on VOCs and odor release from P. neurantha (Hemsl.) Gamble

The problem of odor caused by solid wood and its lacquer finish is increasingly serious. In this study, gas chromatography–mass spectrometry/olfactometry is used to analyze the volatile organic compounds and odor-active substances released from Phoebe neurantha (Hemsl.) Gamble lacquered with three types of lacquers, which is helpful in solving furniture’s odor problem. The results show that olefin emission of the three types of lacquer coating for P. neurantha (Hemsl.) Gamble decreases by more than 90% but that total volatile organic compound release increases. Among these, polyurethane (PU) lacquer could lead to a sharp increase of ester and aromatic hydrocarbons. Waterborne lacquer also releases numerous esters and alcohol compounds. Ultraviolet (UV)-curable lacquer has the greatest inhibitory effect on alcohols, aldehydes, and ketones and does not release esters or other compounds, but the release of toluene increases sharply. Benzaldehyde, toluene, and 1,3-dimethylbenzene are identified as key odor characteristic compounds of P. neurantha (Hemsl.) Gamble. Aromatic and fruity are the main odor characteristics of P. neurantha and three types of lacquer decoration studied. The overall odor intensity increases with lacquer treatment, especially PU lacquer. Among them, UV lacquer has the lowest overall odor intensity.